Councillor in sex assault arrest

Councillor Ahmed will continue to serve as the member for Berridge

A Nottingham city councillor has been arrested on suspicion of assault and sexual assault.

Hassan Ahmed, the council's portfolio holder for employment and skills, has been released on police bail pending further investigations.

The 58-year-old has publically denied the allegations and said he was co-operating fully with the police investigation.

He has stepped down from his portfolio position during the inquiry.

His responsibilities will be taken over by Councillor Jon Collins.

Councillor Ahmed has decided to step aside from his duties as portfolio holder for employment and skills while the matter is resolved Nottingham City Council

Mr Ahmed will continue to serve as Labour councillor for the Berridge ward.

A police spokesman said: "We arrested a 58-year-old man on suspicion of committing common assault and sexual assault on July 29.

"The man was released on bail pending further inquiries and the matter is still very much under investigation."

Mr Ahmed took up his position as portfolio holder in May. He has been bailed until 19 November.

A Nottingham City Council spokesman said: "It would not be appropriate to comment at this stage of a police investigation.

"Councillor Ahmed has decided to step aside from his duties as portfolio holder for employment and skills while the matter is resolved."